Sources: Brentford deal to trigger Benjamin Arthur's Celtic return
Brentford may allow young centre-back Benjamin Arthur to re-join Celtic on loan this summer, sources have told Football Insider.
The Bees are prepared to consider another loan exit for the 20-year-old, but any move is likely to be dependent on Keith Andrews adding more defensive options to his squad.
Arthur spent the second half of last season on loan at Celtic Park, and Martin O'Neill has made it clear that he is keen to reunite with the starlet.
The Bhoys have reportedly already seen a bid for Arthur rejected by Brentford, with sources saying that they view him as a key part of their long-term plans.
The defender could even get a chance for the West London club in the Premier League this term if they cannot add to their defensive ranks.
For Celtic, a second loan deal remains their best chance of taking Arthur back to Glasgow, but it will be heavily dependent on Brentford's business.
Martin O'Neill a big admirer of Benjamin Arthur
Arthur was brought in by Celtic last January, primarily as cover while they were short of depth at centre-back.
The youngster only made four appearances in the Scottish Premiership during his time with the Hoops, but he clearly made a lasting impression on O'Neill.
The veteran boss is a big fan of the starlet, and has been the driving force behind Celtic's attempts to take him back this summer.
Arthur's brief stint in Scotland saw him deputise effectively when called upon, and saw him return to his parent club with some impressive stats behind him.
He won over 81 per cent of his duels in Celtic colours, and also averaged a staggering 13.5 defensive contributions per 90 minutes.
O'Neill and Co. are keen to have the chance to work with him across a full campaign, but the ball remains firmly in Brentford's court at the moment.
Celtic tipped to make 'three more' signings
Former Aberdeen chief executive Keith Wyness recently told Football Insider that he feels Celtic need to make "three more" signings before the 3 September transfer deadline.
The Bhoys recently completed a club-record move to make Bodo/Glimt striker Kasper Hogh their second summer addition, and he made his debut in the win over Dundee.
However, Wyness is adamant that O'Neill's group is still short of significant quality, and has urged them to bring in more players of Hogh's pedigree.
Fans have been growing frustrated with the lack of spending from the board in recent months, and Wyness has warned that their summer business cannot stop here.